Is Smoke a Noob Saibot? Unraveling the Mortal Kombat Connection
No, Smoke is not Noob Saibot. While the two characters have a complex and intertwined history within the Mortal Kombat universe, they are distinct individuals with separate origins, motivations, and identities. Their alliance in Mortal Kombat: Deception, where they fought as a tag team under the name Noob-Smoke, is a key source of confusion, but it doesn’t equate to them being the same entity.
The Deception Alliance: A Case of Forced Partnership
The primary reason many believe Smoke and Noob Saibot are the same character stems from their appearance as a combined fighting force in Mortal Kombat: Deception. The storyline explains that Noob Saibot, formerly the original Sub-Zero (Bi-Han), discovered a dormant Cyber-Smoke in Shao Kahn’s abandoned fortress. Intrigued by the cyborg ninja, Noob Saibot reactivated and reprogrammed Smoke using his shadow powers, turning him into a loyal minion.
This alliance was driven by Noob Saibot’s desire to create an army of cyber-demons. He saw Smoke’s advanced technology as a perfect foundation for his plans. However, Smoke’s will was suppressed, essentially turning him into a puppet controlled by Noob Saibot. This doesn’t make them the same character, but rather a powerful and unsettling partnership born out of manipulation.
Separate Identities and Backstories
Even with the Noob-Smoke tag team, their individual histories and motivations remain crucial to understanding why they are not the same.
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Noob Saibot (Bi-Han): Once the proud and skilled Lin Kuei assassin, Bi-Han was killed by Scorpion in the first Mortal Kombat tournament. Resurrected by the sorcerer Quan Chi as a wraith, he became Noob Saibot, stripped of his former self and consumed by darkness. His motivations revolve around power, revenge, and embracing the evil he was forced into. He seeks to corrupt and destroy.
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Smoke (Tomas Vrbada): A member of the Lin Kuei and close friend of Kuai Liang (the younger Sub-Zero), Smoke possesses the ability to manipulate smoke. In various timelines, he either chooses to embrace his destiny as a warrior or is unwillingly transformed into a cyborg. Before becoming Noob Saibot’s minion, Smoke fought to protect Earthrealm. His tragic fate usually involves being stripped of his free will. In the latest timeline of Mortal Kombat 1, Smoke’s origin has been rewritten; a commoner who was adopted into the Lin Kuei after his parents are killed by the clan for trespassing on their property and raised alongside Bi-Han and Kuai Liang as their brother.
The Impact of Timelines and Reboots
The constantly evolving timelines in the Mortal Kombat franchise can further complicate understanding the relationship between Smoke and Noob Saibot. Some timelines depict Smoke becoming a cyborg unwillingly, while others showcase him as a heroic figure resisting corruption. Regardless of the specific timeline, Smoke’s identity remains separate from Noob Saibot’s, even when manipulated or controlled by him.
The distinction is further emphasized in newer games like Mortal Kombat 1, which introduced new backstories for both characters. Though Noob Saibot is not present in this latest installment, Smoke is featured as an individual with a distinct history and set of motivations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the origin of the Noob-Smoke tag team?
In Mortal Kombat: Deception, Noob Saibot found a deactivated Cyber-Smoke and reprogrammed him to serve as his minion, forming the Noob-Smoke tag team. This alliance was created out of Noob Saibot‘s need for a powerful ally to accomplish his goals.
2. What is Noob Saibot’s real name and backstory?
Noob Saibot’s real name is Bi-Han, the original Sub-Zero. He was killed by Scorpion and resurrected by Quan Chi as a wraith.
3. What are Smoke’s powers and abilities?
Smoke can manipulate smoke, using it for invisibility, teleportation, and attacking opponents.
4. Is Smoke related to Sub-Zero?
In most timelines, Smoke is a close friend and ally of Kuai Liang, the younger Sub-Zero. In the New Era however, they are raised as brothers.
5. How did Noob Saibot get his name?
Noob Saibot’s name is derived from the last names of Mortal Kombat creators Ed Boon and John Tobias, spelled backwards.
6. Has Smoke ever been a cyborg?
Yes, in some timelines, Smoke is transformed into a cyborg, often against his will.
7. Is Noob Saibot always evil?
Yes, after being resurrected as a wraith, Noob Saibot becomes a ruthless and malevolent force.
8. What is Noob Saibot’s relationship with Quan Chi?
Noob Saibot was resurrected by Quan Chi and initially served as his slave.
9. Was Smoke ever a revenant?
Yes, in some timelines, Smoke is resurrected as a revenant, serving evil forces.
10. What is the Lin Kuei?
The Lin Kuei is a clan of assassins to which Smoke and both Sub-Zeros belong.
11. What are the origins of the rivalry between Scorpion and Sub-Zero?
The rivalry began when Bi-Han (Sub-Zero) killed Scorpion‘s family. Scorpion sought revenge, leading to Sub-Zero’s death.
12. What role does Smoke play in Mortal Kombat 1?
In Mortal Kombat 1, Smoke has been reimagined with a new backstory, being raised alongside Bi-Han and Kuai Liang as their brother, and plays the role of ally to Liu Kang as a heroic figure.
13. What is the Brotherhood of Shadow?
The Brotherhood of Shadow is a cult that worships the fallen Elder God Shinnok, to which Noob Saibot belonged.
14. Are there any other characters who have teamed up with Noob Saibot?
While Noob Saibot has formed alliances with various characters, the most significant and memorable is his partnership with Smoke.
15. What is the significance of Smoke’s human form compared to his cyborg form?
Smoke’s human form represents his original identity and potential for good, while his cyborg form highlights his forced servitude and loss of free will.
Conclusion: Two Separate Destinies
In conclusion, while the alliance of Noob-Smoke in Mortal Kombat: Deception might suggest a unified character, it’s vital to remember their distinct origins and destinies. Noob Saibot is the corrupted wraith of Bi-Han, consumed by darkness, while Smoke is Tomas Vrbada, a warrior whose fate is often tragically manipulated. They are two separate characters with different backgrounds, motivations, and, ultimately, different paths within the Mortal Kombat universe.
Furthermore, understanding the importance of storytelling and character development in video games, particularly within the fighting game genre, highlights how nuances can enhance the overall experience. To delve deeper into the educational aspects and community engagement surrounding games and learning, consider exploring the resources provided by the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.